Foster Grandparent Program

A tax-free stipend is paid to income-eligible older adults who volunteer in local schools, childcare centers or other youth-service settings near their homes.

In this federal program, volunteers serve regular, consistent hours in the same classrooms so it becomes like a “second home” where volunteers are highly valued members of the group. “Foster Grandparents” work with the same children throughout the year, receiving the love of the children and the respect of the teachers. Because of their consistency, they achieve considerable results with children. They also gain significant health benefits themselves by staying active and providing meaningful contributions to the children and communities.

The program is built around the needs and choices of its volunteers, who must be over age 60, and the needs of the children. The participants choose the age of children they enjoy most and the times they prefer to serve so they can continue to pursue their other interests as well.

Foster Grandparents are trained by teachers to work with children who need extra attention to accomplish their academic goals, improve their behavioral or social skills or who need additional nurturing or pre-school training.

The program’s flexibility creates an outstanding volunteer environment. Volunteers must serve 15 hours per week but also take plenty of time for personal and family needs, weather concerns and school closings. Some prefer a year-round schedule while others take summers or winters off.

In addition to the stipend, volunteers also receive mileage reimbursements for their travel to and from their volunteer site, meals at the site and paid time off. Monthly meetings provide guest speakers on topics ranging from issues facing children to senior wellness. Each year, the volunteers’ service is recognized at a beautiful luncheon.

Children who receive the consistent presence of Foster Grandparents often achieve significant progress in their educational, emotional and behavioral capabilities. The volunteers enjoy the love and hugs of the children, meaningful new community connections and the wholehearted appreciation of the teachers.

This unique program has brought together tens of thousands of needy children and loving older adults who have been deeply enriched by their relationships.

History and Funding

The Foster Grandparent Program is a federal Senior Corps program, created in 1965 as a part of the Older Americans Act and War on Poverty. It currently operates under the Domestic Volunteer Services Act and is funded by the Corporation for National and Community Service, United Ways and State and private funding. The Friends Program has been the sponsor of the Foster Grandparent Program since 1986.